The mission of the Life Skills program is to inspire student-athletes to continue their pursuit of excellence when the crowd stops cheering. The NCAA has developed the CHAMPS/Life Skills Program, (Challenging Athlete Minds for Personal Success). CHAMPS focuses on five commitments that each selected institution’s program is contributing to the growth and development of student-athletes:

Academic Excellence

Athletic Excellence

Personal Development

Community Service

Career Development

The Mississippi State University Athletic Department maintains a strong commitment to the development of all student-athletes and encourages personal, academic, and athletic growth.

SAAC Mission Statement: “The mission of the Mississippi State University Athlete Advisory Council (SAAC) is to enhance the entire student-athlete experience by fostering a positive image, providing equal opportunity, as well as protection of the athlete. Furthermore, the council will strengthen communication between the student athletes, the entire athletic department, and the university as a whole.”

Purpose - Promote communication between athletic administration and student-athletes - Generate a student-athlete voice within the campus athletic department’s formulation of policies - Build a sense of community within the athletic department involving all athletic teams - Solicit student-athlete response to proposed conference and NCAA legislation - Promote a positive student-athlete image on campus and in the community

Structure- Each sport selects one representative (except for football and track) to be present at the SAAC meetings - Executive Board is composed of student-athletes who are chosen by SAAC representatives (President and Vice President)